How Signify will significantly reduce its carbon footprint with the first-ever publicly-announced corporate VPPA in Poland

Schneider Electric Energy & Sustainability Services was the advisor to the world leader in lighting, who will source 42 megawatts of clean power from the Kisielice onshore wind farm.

Polish facilities of Signify, the world leader in lighting, are responsible for more than 25% of the company’s global electricity footprint given that 80% of the electricity generation in Poland comes from coal. That’s the reason why Signify recently signed the first publicly-announced corporate virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) in Poland, marking a major milestone in its commitment to become carbon neutral by 2020.

Renewable energy VPPAs are increasingly popular in Europe where companies are using them to secure a fixed price for power with guaranteed environmental benefits. These voluntary agreements can also play a critical role in accelerating the growth of renewables in markets where there’s little to no subsidy provided. In Poland, renewable PPAs will aid the country in reaching its 2030 country goal of 21% renewable energy generation.

“This VPPA is a major milestone on our journey to become carbon neutral in 2020. It’s crucial for our transition to 100% renewable electricity next year, as well as supporting Poland’s energy transition.”
– Nicola Kimm
Head of Sustainability, Environment, Health & Safety at Signify

Signify will purchase renewable energy for its operations in Poland from the Green Investment Group’s (GIG’s) Kisielice onshore wind farm. “This VPPA is a major milestone on our journey to become carbon neutral in 2020,” said Nicola Kimm, Head of Sustainability, Environment, Health & Safety at Signify. “It’s crucial for our transition to 100% renewable electricity next year, as well as supporting Poland’s energy transition.” The 42-megawatt (MW) project will help Signify reduce its annual carbon footprint by 73 kt CO2e pa – the equivalent of removing over 23,000 cars from the road.

Schneider Electric Energy & Sustainability Services (ESS) advised Signify on the process of identifying, selecting and contracting for the project. “Signify is demonstrating significant leadership with this VPPA. It’s the first publicly announced VPPA in Poland supporting renewables in a market dominated by fossil fuels,” said Philippe Diez, Vice President EMEA, Schneider Electric ESS. “We congratulate Signify for their steadfast commitment to carbon reduction and a renewable energy future.”